UN Human Rights Commissioner Calls for a "Serious" Investigation into Beirut Port Explosion

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has called for a "serious investigation" into the catastrophic explosion that occurred at the Beirut port in 2020. In his global speech before the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Turk emphasized that "there is an urgent need for a serious investigation into the August 2020 explosion, free from political interference or further delay." Following that, the Australian envoy read a statement on behalf of 38 countries, including many European nations, Canada, Britain, and Israel, urging for a "swift, independent investigation characterized by credibility and transparency." The statement noted that the investigation "has been hindered by systematic obstruction, interference, intimidation, and political stagnation." In a separate statement, the U.S. ambassador to the council, Michelle Taylor, mentioned that a prompt and transparent investigation is required. She added that the lack of progress thus far confirms the need for judicial reform.